Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is a nourishing dish that combines vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it warms you up on chilly days while providing an immune boost. Packed with veggies and aromatic spices, this soup is not only delicious but also promotes wellness with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With one pot and simple steps, this recipe makes cooking a breeze.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of turmeric and fresh vegetables creates a rich, comforting broth.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great for lunch or dinner, this soup fits into various meal plans.
• Nutrient-Dense: Full of vitamins and minerals, it’s perfect for supporting overall health.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This is crucial for cooking all the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in the soup.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, halved lengthwise, and thinly sliced
• 3 large carrots, thinly sliced
• 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For Flavor

• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

For the Soup

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 13.5 ounce can coconut milk
• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless thighs or breasts

For Garnish (Optional)

• 1 10 ounce bag frozen peas (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add onions, leeks, carrots, celery, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté while stirring occasionally until leeks are soft and starting to caramelize—about 14-16 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Add chopped garlic, turmeric, and poultry seasoning. Continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until spices and garlic are fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Add raw chicken to the pot while scraping up any stuck-on bits from the bottom. Bring everything to a bare simmer, ensuring the chicken is submerged beneath the broth. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.

Step 4: Shred Chicken and Add Peas

Remove the lid from the soup. Take out the chicken to cool slightly on a cutting board. Cut into bite-sized pieces or shred with two forks. Return it to the pot along with frozen peas (if using) and fresh parsley. Bring back to a slow simmer for about 5 minutes until peas are bright green.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your warm bowl of anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup!

How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

This anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want it as a light meal or a hearty option, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an added burst of flavor and color.
• Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for a refreshing twist that complements the spices.

Accompanying Bread

• Crusty Whole Grain Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Naan: Pair with garlic naan for a warm, flavorful addition that enhances the meal.

Topping Ideas

• Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices for richness and healthy fats.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the soup, brightening the flavors.

For Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken Strips: Top the soup with grilled chicken strips for an extra protein boost.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: Slice hard-boiled eggs on top for added texture and nutrients.

How to Perfect Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

To make your anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that each bowl is bursting with flavor and nutrients.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor and nutritional value.
• Sauté Spices Well: Properly sauté spices like turmeric and garlic for 2-3 minutes to release their essential oils and flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste throughout cooking and adjust salt and pepper as needed to achieve the perfect balance.
• Let It Rest: Allow your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for easy meals later in the week.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent splitting the coconut milk.

Best Side Dishes for Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup can enhance its flavors and provide a more complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the soup perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and crunch alongside your soup.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a delicious contrast in flavor while adding extra nutrients to your meal.
4. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A refreshing dip made from yogurt (dairy-free if desired) mixed with cucumber and herbs pairs well with the spices of the soup.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs can be a comforting side that soaks up the broth beautifully.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar offers a fresh note against the warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup, avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can lead to mushiness. Sauté them until just tender to retain their texture and nutrients.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to enhance flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold chicken or broth can lower cooking temperatures. Always use room temperature ingredients for even cooking.
• Ignoring Coconut Milk Separation: Coconut milk can separate if boiled too hard. Simmer gently to keep it creamy and well-integrated.
• Not Shredding Chicken Properly: Failing to shred chicken finely can lead to uneven bites in your soup. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces for better distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Soups can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup retains its best quality for up to 3 months when frozen.

Reheating Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup.

Can I make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How spicy is this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

The spice level is mild due to turmeric and poultry seasoning. You can add red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you prefer more heat.

Can I use other vegetables in this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It will also be no longer pink inside when cut.

What are the health benefits of turmeric in this soup?

Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential health benefits including improved digestion and immune support.

Final Thoughts

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is not only nourishing but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners, give this recipe a try for a warm, healthy meal that boosts your wellness!